Athletics: Heptathlon, Final Day

Katarina Johnson-Thompson demonstrates remarkable consistency throughout the two days of competition. Her past Olympic experiences, filled with stress and disappointment, have numbered three. However, she’s a double world champion now, having put most of those past struggles behind her. She intends to make things right in Paris and is a strong contender for the gold medal. Nafi Thiam displayed immense energy, determination, and motivation at the European Championships in Rome, making her a formidable opponent. Jessica Ennis-Hill has dealt with injuries but managed to qualify for the US trials following surgery, indicating she’s ready to perform well in Paris.

Breaking: B-Girls

As a big fan of this year’s Paris Games, I’m excited about the fresh new sport that’s making its debut, even though there won’t be any British competitors to root for. Unlike figure skating where performers choreograph their routines to pre-selected music, breakdancing is all about interpreting and responding to tunes played live by DJs on the spot. In breakdancing competitions, also known as battles or throw downs, dancers face off against each other in a series of alternating performances, showcasing their creativity, personality, technique, variety, performativity, and musicality to impress the judges. The tournaments kick off with B-Girls today and B-Boys tomorrow, starting with round robins and advancing to straight knockouts. Nicka from Lithuania and Victor from the US are the favorites, but the Japanese trio of Shigekix and B-Girls Ami and Ayumi are determined to give them a run for their money.

Football: Men’s Final

The summer of 1984 was a triumph for French football as the men’s team claimed both the European Championship title and Olympic gold. However, since then, there has been nothing remarkable at the Games. With home advantage, Thierry Henry’s powerful squad stands to gain even more strength, considering Brazil failed to qualify for the Championships and Argentina missed out too. Even without Kylian Mbappé, who is banned from playing by Real Madrid after Euro 2024, France still boasts an impressive roster of talent.

Marathon Swimming: Men’s 10km

Marathon swimmers exhibit remarkable endurance. Despite being dragged underwater or colliding with other swimmers, they persist. The concern for the Seine’s water quality is prominent, but these tenacious athletes carry on swimming. Hector Pardoe, a British athlete, is worth keeping an eye on. Though he failed to finish at the previous Olympics due to an injury, his World Championship medal now adds to Britain’s collection. With Team GB finishing third in the table three years ago, the question of improvement has been asked frequently. The Paris Swimming Championships will soon reveal the answer.

Track Cycling: Men’s Madison Final

I greatly enjoy the hectic atmosphere of the Madison race, yet it poses a significant challenge for both calling and commentating. With complete concentration, I must divide my attention between the velodrome and the computer screens, where live timing data is constantly streaming in. Simultaneously, I need to perform calculations and provide commentary. Although securing a win is an admirable goal, any medal earned would be a remarkable achievement due to the presence of formidable teams like the Dutch, Kiwis, and Danes.

Athletics: Women’s 1500m Final

As a devoted cinema goer, I’m thrilled to share my perspective on the ongoing drama unfolding in the world of athletics. Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon, the reigning champion and the current record holder, is absolutely setting the track ablaze with her exceptional form right now. It seems natural that Laura Muir would be seen as a formidable contender, but the recent trials told a different story. Georgia Bell, who’s making her Olympic debut this year while balancing a full-time job, surprisingly outperformed Laura Muir and claimed the top spot.